MyCatholicBlog came across this amusing article on Christ and Pop Culture from a couple years back. In it, author Alan Noble gives us some helpful hints about how to react to, and improve, “embarrassingly bad Christian music.” One of the hints Mr. Noble gives that MyCatholicBlog loves in particular is: Consider whether or not the music you buy is really worth the praise.

Noble warns that just like its secular counter-part, Christian music is often praised simply on its consumer merits alone; that is to say, one assumes that if it’s sold in a specific place (let’s say, a Christian bookstore for example), then that music must be good automatically. Not necessarily the case of course, and thus Noble urges for us to use caution when listening or recommending Christian music, in order to not perpetuate music that, although it may have a good message, is ultimately just bad.

The entire article is filled with wit and insight, and was a pleasure to read.

George Beverly Shea is set to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award during this year’s Grammy Awards. Shea, who turns 102 a week before the ceremony (in February), boasts a singing career that spans over 80 years and 70 albums.

According to The Recording Academy’s website (www.grammy.com), the Lifetime Achievement Award honours lifelong artistic contributions to the recording medium, and is determined by vote of The Recording Academy’s National Board of Trustees.

“It is a great honor to recognize and celebrate such a distinguished and dynamic group of honorees who have been the creators of such timeless art,” said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow.

“These influential performers and brilliant innovators have been of great inspiration to our culture and industry. Their legendary work has left a lasting impression and will continue to influence generations to come.”

When asked about his life’s work, Shea responded, “The music has been for God’s glory.” The Lifetime Achievement Award will be given out in a special invitation-only ceremony the week of the Grammys, with an acknowledgment made at the Grammy Awards itself.